Puffing Billy, Healesville Sanctuary & Chocolatier

If you’re looking for a day trip that offers a blend of scenic travel, wildlife encounters, and indulgent treats, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s marketed as a full-day experience from Melbourne, and from what we’ve gathered, it genuinely delivers on that promise. Featuring an iconic steam train ride on Puffing Billy, a visit to Healesville Sanctuary to meet Australia’s native animals, and a sweet finale at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, this tour balances heritage charm with natural beauty and gourmet delights.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines different facets of Victoria’s character—history, wildlife, and local craftsmanship—in one seamless day. The 30-minute Puffing Billy ride on open-sided carriages is a highlight for many, offering stunning views and that classic steam engine smell. Meanwhile, the animal encounters at Healesville Sanctuary make it especially appealing for families and wildlife lovers. And wrapping up at the Chocolaterie, with its guided tastings and artisan chocolates, adds a delicious touch of indulgence.

A potential consideration is the overall timing. With a packed schedule, you’ll spend around 2.5 hours at the sanctuary and about an hour each way on the coach, so it’s not a trip for those wanting a slow, leisurely day. Also, since food at the sanctuary is limited and flies can be bothersome, some might prefer packing snacks or planning for a quick lunch beforehand. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a well-organized day filled with iconic experiences, especially those keen on scenic train rides and Australian wildlife.

Key Points

• Iconic Steam Train: The Puffing Billy journey offers classic open-sided carriages and stunning rainforest views.
• Wildlife Encounters: Healesville Sanctuary provides close-up views of koalas, kangaroos, wombats, and more.
• Sweet Finale: Yarra Valley Chocolaterie treats visitors to chocolate tastings and a chance to watch chocolatiers at work.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes transportation, guided tours, and plenty of photo stops, making it ideal for those wanting a full-immersion experience.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for travelers of all ages, especially wildlife lovers and those with a sweet tooth.
• Value for Money: Combining transport, entry fees, and tastings, this trip offers good value for a full day of activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Stands Out

This experience offers a rare chance to combine Victoria’s heritage railways with wildlife and culinary delights in one day. The Puffing Billy steam train has been rolling through the Dandenong Ranges for over a century, and riding its open-sided carriages feels like stepping back in time. The thrill of dangling your legs outside a vintage carriage while the engine chugs through towering mountain ash trees is surprisingly invigorating—something many reviews highlight as a favorite part.

The visit to Healesville Sanctuary is another highlight. This sanctuary is renowned for its efforts to protect native species, and the opportunity to see animals like koalas and wombats in a naturalistic setting is truly special. Reviewers have appreciated the keeper talks, which make the wildlife more engaging and help visitors understand the importance of conservation efforts. One reviewer summed it up by saying, “Every activity was so good thanks you,” emphasizing the overall quality of the experience.

The afternoon at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie offers a delightful contrast. The guided tasting journey of 12 handcrafted chocolates, along with watching European chocolatiers craft their creations, appeals to anyone with a sweet tooth. The showroom is designed to impress, and many visitors find it a wonderful place to browse and pick up souvenirs. One guest noted, “Michael is the best photographer 🙂 took photos and filmed trains and us,” highlighting the friendly, personalized experience that can often accompany such tours.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at 688 Bourke St, the coach departs for the Dandenong Ranges after a quick check-in. The first major stop is Puffing Billy at Belgrave, where you’ll hop aboard the open-sided carriage for a 30-minute scenic ride. This part of the tour is a genuine throwback—standing outside, legs dangling, and watching the lush forests and mountain streams whiz by is both exhilarating and peaceful.

Next, you’ll head to Healesville Sanctuary, about 45 minutes away. Here, you’ll spend around 2.5 hours exploring the bushland tracks, getting up close to native animals, and enjoying keeper talks. While the sanctuary is well-loved for its native species, some reviewers noted that a longer visit might be beneficial, especially if you’re keen to see everything in detail. The mention of food scarcity and flies at the sanctuary suggests bringing your own snacks or planning for a quick lunch beforehand.

After the sanctuary, the coach heads to Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, about 30 minutes away. The guided chocolate tasting offers a chance to sample 12 handcrafted chocolates, with the opportunity to purchase artisan products. Watching chocolatiers at work adds a layer of appreciation for this craft, and many visitors enjoy browsing the showroom afterward.

Finally, the coach returns to Melbourne, arriving back at 688 Bourke St roughly 10 hours after departure. The whole day is tightly scheduled but well-organized, ensuring you see the highlights without feeling rushed.

Transport and Group Dynamics

The coach rides are comfortable, with about 15-20 people per group, allowing for an intimate yet social atmosphere. The live English-speaking guide makes a noticeable difference, offering insights and answering questions along the way. Pickup options at various central Melbourne locations add convenience, and the flexibility to request alternative pickup points makes this tour accessible for many travelers.

Pricing and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, reviews suggest that considering the entry fees, train ride, tastings, and transport, this tour offers good value. It’s especially appealing for those who prefer an all-in-one experience rather than organizing individual visits to each site. For families, couples, and wildlife enthusiasts, the combination of heritage rail, native animals, and chocolate tasting balances entertainment and education without breaking the bank.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want an authentic taste of Victoria’s natural beauty and heritage without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s perfect for families, wildlife lovers, and anyone curious about Australian culture—especially those who enjoy scenic train journeys and gourmet treats. The tour’s structure makes it accessible and enjoyable, even for travelers with limited time, as it packs in several memorable highlights into one day.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or extended visits at each stop, you might find this tour somewhat busy. It’s best suited for those eager to see the essentials and enjoy a well-organized, scenic adventure.

The Sum Up

This Puffing Billy, Healesville Sanctuary, and Chocolaterie tour offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, wildlife, and indulgence. It’s a colorful tapestry of Victorian landscapes, native animals, and artisan chocolates—all delivered with friendly guidance and excellent organization. The steam train ride alone makes it worth considering, but the added wildlife experience and chocolate tasting elevate the day to something truly special.

For travelers seeking a balanced, authentic, and fun-filled day trip from Melbourne, this tour hits the sweet spot. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo explorer, you’ll leave with new stories, photos, and perhaps a few chocolate souvenirs.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire trip lasts about 10 hours, from departure in the morning to return in the evening.

Where does the tour start?
The main starting point is outside The Mail Exchange Hotel at 688 Bourke Street, with options for alternative pickup locations.

Is the coach comfortable?
Yes, the coach is equipped for a comfortable ride, and the group size is small enough for a friendly atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking around at the sanctuary and enjoying outdoor train rides.

Can I customize the pickup location?
Yes, you can request a different pickup point via email at least 72 hours before the tour, and it will be confirmed.

Is food included?
No, but the chocolate tasting is part of the tour. The sanctuary has limited food options, so bringing snacks might be wise.

Are children welcome?
Absolutely, this tour is family-friendly, especially for wildlife lovers. Keep in mind the overall schedule for young children.

What’s the highlight?
Most travelers rave about the scenic Puffing Billy ride and the close encounters with native wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary.

How is the guide?
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance the experience with insights and storytelling.

What’s the best part of the day?
Many mention the open-sided train ride and chocolate tasting as the most memorable moments, combining scenic beauty with sensory indulgence.

In all, this tour offers a well-organized, diverse snapshot of Victorian nature, heritage railways, and delicious local craftsmanship. It’s a fantastic way to truly experience what makes this region so special without the stress of planning every detail. If you’re visiting Melbourne and want a full, satisfying day out, it’s hard to go wrong with this trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby